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Level 1
The Mechanic: I’m glad you could make it. Did you really manage to retrieve the device? I’ll need to assess its condition. Excellent. I think this is about as good as it gets. Ah, I know this. I’ve been looking all over for it. Been waiting a long time for you to get here, friend. I understand you have a Q-pid? Then go ahead and connect me to the network.
The Mechanic: Fascinating, this ocean of information… It’s so much more than I imagined. Enough for me to make great strides in multiple avenues of research. I hesitate to call it a reward, but I would like to present you with this. It’s a classic collectable—sure to help you make lasting memories. I’ve finished my examination of that coffin. And now I can share with you the coffin board schematic. It’s essentially a coffin that’s been equipped with an electric propulsion unit. Who made it and for what purpose is anyone’s guess. I just happened to stumble across the associated data while I was studying the one you recovered. I’m also curious how such a bizarre device came into the possession of the Armed Survivalists. Even though the weapons factory has been destroyed, this and other dangerous tech has been popping up everywhere. We need to use all methods at our disposal to protect ourselves.
Sam: What kind of countermeasures?
The Mechanic: I’ve been thinkin about how I might make vehicles sturdier, for one. Much of the surrounding area is flat and level terrain that’s well-suited to them. A reinforced ride would be a good ally when facing survivalists, I believe. But I still lack the materials and knowledge to complete my designs. Which is why I could really use your assistance, if you’re willing.
Sam: Dangerous tech popping up everywhere?
The Mechanic: The Armed Survivalists have been making use of some new equipment lately. You’ve seen them yourself no doubt. Devices that utilize chiralgrams. Weapons are flowing freely again too. There must be another supplier out there somewhere. Perhaps if you ventured into the survivalists’ territory, you could find some clues as to the source of the problem. Though I wouldn’t risk going in there unprepared.
Sam: Coffin board?
The Mechanic: Again, it’s a coffin that’s been outfitted with an unusual propulsion unit. It draws up tar from beneath the ground to create a layer upon which it can glide. It’s not without its limitations, though. I seriously doubt it will function outside of network coverage. And it’s clearly the product of a deranged mind. Regardless, it’s not impossible—it might come in handy. Test it in the field and see for yourself what you think.
Sam: Okay, I’m heading off.
The Mechanic: Thanks again for all your help, friend. Oh, and by the way, the Data Scientist just posted a sub order for you in the system. Sounds like she’s got her hands on something intriguing. You should at least take a look at the request. But I won’t keep you. We both have work to do.
Charlie: Sam. The coffin you recovered for us is being examined by the Mechanic as we speak. APAS’s own analysis has concluded that while there is no evidence that Higgs was ever inside it… The technology it utilizes is undeniably related to that of the ghost mechs. Meaning it’s possible that Higgs is still fabricating all-new kinds of weapons. Now, as for the coffin board that the Mechanic was kind enough to share with you… It’s much more than just a mode of transport. If you’re within network coverage, you can hide inside one and retreat into the tar currents. This provides an opportunity to catch your breath—or to attack the enemy with a stun bomb. The board you brought back had the very same functionality, so we’re very lucky you stole it from the Survivalists before they could learn how to use it. It would be terrible indeed if we had to contend with enemies attacking from the tar beneath our feet. I must commend you on a job well done. Thank you, Sam.
Fragile: Thanks for doing your part, Sam. I know that wasn’t an easy job. The time has come to finally connect East Fort Knot to the chiral network. That said, it will take a while longer for the necessary cargo to be ready for transport. So let’s use this time for everyone to get some rest. Between decontaminating the ship and searching for the weapons factory, it’s fair to say everyone’s been feeling the strain. You and Dollman have had to complete several difficult orders recently too. Wrap up any pressing unfinished business, then return to the Magellan so you can take a break. We have a long road ahead of us, and we need to manage our health to make it to the end. On another subject—would you mind if I borrowed that instant camera the Mechanic gave you? I bet Rainy and Tomorrow would love to try it out. Apparently they’re pretty rare these days. It’ll be a fun experience for them.
Level 2
The Mechanic: Thanks for coming. Checking the orders in the system now. Ah, I know this. I’ve been looking all over for it. I have inventions to share with you that I couldn’t have completed without your help. I’m increasing your allocation of materials. Use them—I want you to. These plates can be attached to a vehicle for increased protection. This particular set is for a pickup off-roader. It’s just the thing if you’re looking to shield yourself against small arms fire. The antigravity unit, meanwhile, will reduce the damage your vehicle takes when falling from high places. A handy safeguard when navigating mountainous territory… or when making a dramatic escape from pursuers by driving right off a cliff! Anyway, take care my friend.
Level 3
The Mechanic: Hey, glad you could make it. Took care of some orders, huh? Wow, I don’t think anyone could find fault with your work. It’s perfection. Where did you dig this up? Feels like I’ve been waiting forever. As thanks for your constant support, I have another gift to share with you. I’m increasing your allocation of materials. Use them—I want you to. When equipped to a vehicle, this mortar will automatically target and engage enemies. It fires multi-purpose shells, which are proven to be effective against a wide variety of threats. Bear in mind it launches these shells in an arc to hit distant targets—and conversely, it can’t hit ones which get too close. Also, any cargo that happens to be near an explosion is at risk of being damaged as well. So make sure that you only use it when the situation allows. Stay safe out there, friend. I’ll see you later.
Level 4
The Mechanic: Hey, glad you could make it. Took care of some orders, huh? Just look at all this. Exceeding expectations as only you can. Ah, I know this. I’ve been looking all over for it. Sorry to lean on you so much, Sam. I hope this makes up for the trouble. Sure you have enough materials? I’m going to make it so you can withdraw more. It’s a type of vehicle-mounted rocket launcher. When equipped, it automatically fires electromagnetic rockets at mid-range targets. These rockets release an electrical discharge that can damage multiple enemies—perfect for when you’re in hostile territory. But they’re useless against VTs, so you’ll need something else if that’s a concern. Still, I’m pretty sure you’ll grow to like this new toy. Now get going.
Level 5
The Mechanic: I didn’t mean to make you stay out late. I’ll check your orders now. Looks great to me. Thanks for taking such good care of it. Where did you dig this up? Feels like I’ve been waiting forever. You’ve come through for me time and time again, Sam. And I couldn’t be more grateful—as I hope this little offering shows. Sure you have enough materials? I’m going to make it so you can withdraw more. Again, I have to thank you, Sam—for always showing up when I need a hand. For so long, I dreamed of getting behind the wheel again—driving outside without a care. But at some point I gave up on that dream. And then, I met you… and it didn’t seem so far-fetched after all. I believe in you, my friend.